My musical influences mainly comprise my parents record collection - James Taylor, Eva Cassidy, K.D.Lang, Elton John - a lot of
singer-songwriters, but also big pop bands like ABBA and Queen, and soul legends like Marvin Gaye and Bill Withers. More recently I'm influenced by things I hear on the radio as I do a lot
of driving, and also by artists that people liken me to or suggest I might like. Joni Mitchell is a good example of this - I'd never really listened to her music until people kept asking me
if she'd influenced my songwriting. My non-musical influences are my family, friends and teachers.

What inspires you to do what you do?

I can't turn off the creative switch inside my head. The inspiration for individual songs comes from people, places and
stories mainly. Songwriting itself became an obsession for me once I'd figured out I could do it, and with that comes the need to share what I write with others - to let them see inside my
mind and understand me a little even if they don't know me. I love connecting with people through music and making an audience feel something they weren't expecting to feel. Coming
off stage after a fantastic gig with a huge smile on my face is the best thing ever.

How do you handle mistakes during a performance?

I either carry on as if they haven't happened or use them to my advantage - make a joke of them, use them to make the performance
more unique and memorable to those in the audience.

Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Not really - it's the connection with an audience and their reactions to my own music that moves me the most. I feel the
emotions of the song much more deeply when I perform.

How would you describe your perfect day?

Any day that involves seeing my friends and sunshine is a perfect day.

Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I don’t really get nervous when I meet new people. I’d love to meet James Taylor one day.

What embarrassing songs might I find on your MP3 player?

Various hits by Taylor Swift.

If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that be?

In the garden of the house where I grew up.

Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I'd like to travel more and perform all over the world.

Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Still writing and performing music that is true to myself and means something to me. Performing to a sold out Royal Albert
Hall and similar venues in other countries.

What is the furthest show from your home that you have done?

Performing at Summer Camp in Maine, U.S. to a whole load of kids and staff.